{Cincinnati’s Finest}
slmag.net
Jan/Feb 2012
five dollars
O U R F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S
2801 Erie Condominiums Residences #103 & #202 Hyde Park, $572,801 & $572,801
27 Hampton Lane Hyde Park, $665,000
909 Riverview Place Mt. Adams, $1,450,000
2766 Baker Place East Walnut Hills, $949,000
1925 Auburn Terrace #5 Mt. Auburn, $198,570
1201 Edgecliff Place #1092 Eden Park, $614,000
Baker Place
Existing home sales took a surprising jump in October**. Five cities stood out with sales up more than 25 % this year: #1 Miami/Fort Lauderdale +34.6 % #2 Atlanta +33.4 % #3 Minneapolis/St. Paul +33.4 %
#4 Cincinnati +28.9 % #5 New Orleans +27 %
If you’ve been dreaming of new digs – we urge you to consult your Realtor (hopefully us) to help you dig in now to make your dreams reality. *Source: National Association of Realtors
DIGS digs the American Heart Association Heart Ball. February 25th, 2012. For more information: www.heart.org/cincinnatiohheartball
P: 513.979.2685 E: TheWellinghoffGroup@comey.com
2801 Erie Condominiums
Raymar Boulevard
www.DIGS-home.com 513.533.DIGS (3447)
Look What’s New at
Hyde Park Lumber’s Design Center 513-271-1500
| www.hprp.com
Claire-Jeanne-Robert Colinet (1880-1950) Ankara Dancer
Winter Fine and Decorative Art Auction February 25, 2011 10:00 AM EST Bid In person, by phone, absentee or online. cowans.com
Consignments Accepting exceptional consignments for our next Fine and Decorative Art Auction.
Contact Diane C. Wachs decarts@cowans.com 513.871.1670 x20 6270 Este Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
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{Cincinnati’s Finest}
Jan/Feb 2012
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Runway Report From the Sundowner collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Berlin.
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66
Jan/Feb 2012
five dollars
on the cover:
Specials Delivered: La Poste Restaurant
18
It’s easy being green
28
Society Calendar
29
Black & Latino Achievers Salute Gala
30
Beaujolais Premiere
31
Celebration of Heroes
32
Eisele Gallery Auction for ICYO
33
Almost English
34
Bibliotaph
36
Calvados
38
New Kid on the Block
44
Of Note…Geometry 101
46
Set a Standard, as Well as the Table
50
Middle-Aged Marvel
56
Runway Report
66
Specials Delivered
76
Football 101
77
Greater Cincinnati Foundation Luncheon
78
Greater Butler County Business
Hall of Fame
79
Viva Violeta
80
Signature Chefs Auction
81
Tiffany Circle
81
Keys to the Cure
EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Williams ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITORS Kay Matton Jen Dotson ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Dr. Matthew Bessen Ellana Bessen Bob Beggs Kirby Camm Scott Harper Philip Ruskin Diane C. Wachs
Te winter issue available now on the iPad or your mobile device.
Photographers Tony Bailey Chad Henle Andrew Kung COPY EDITOR Jennifer Newton Allison O’Daniel DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Eric Williams ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 502.582.6563 ______________________________________________ PUBLISHER Eric Williams Sophisticated Living is published by Sophisticated Living, LLC, P.O. BOX 1229, Prospect, Kentucky 40059 USA. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of Sophisticated Living, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Single copies may be purchased for $5 at select fine retail outlets. Address all subscription inquiries to: Sophisticated Living, PO Box 1229, Prospect, KY 40059. To order back issues or reprints of 100 or more, call 502.582.6563.
Visit slmag.net
SLMAG.NET
From the Editor-In-Chief
We’ve all heard them at one time or another: a bevy of old wives’ tales that may – or more likely – may not contain a kernel of medical truth. My personal favorite is the one that claims that tickling an infant’s feet will cause them to stutter. If that one was accurate, my once giggling butterball still wouldn’t be able to complete a full sentence a decade on! When I made my foray into parenthood, my mother couldn’t help but relay one or two tales (old habits and superstitions die hard), and true to form I’d quickly find and point out medical science that argued to the contrary. On the other hand, my husband continues to embrace his late mother’s steadfast belief in the power of a good hot toddy to nip a cold in the bud. A woman of indomitable verve, he recalls tasting her version of “cough syrup” (heavier on the honey than bourbon when he was doing the sipping) with fond nostalgia. She certainly wasn’t alone in her belief in the healing powers of bourbon. During Prohibition, Brown-Forman was granted one of just 10 government licenses to produce whiskey for use as medicine (at that time there were over 200 bourbon distilleries in Kentucky). Now that we’re squarely fixed in winter’s frigid grip, I thought it would be apropos to share a recipe from Te Kentucky Bourbon Cocktail Book, by Joy Perrine and Susan Reigler (featured in this month’s bibliotaph column on pages 34-35). I’ll consider each warm sip as a hug from Lois, who’d most certainly approve of my taking a preemptive strike against a cold. Feel Better Kentucky Bourbon Toddy 6 ounces boiling water 2 ounces Kentucky bourbon of your choice 1 ounce brown sugar syrup or undiluted Kentucky sourwood honey 4 dashes Angostura bitters 1 ounce fresh orange juice 1 ounce fresh lemon juice 1 ounce fresh lime juice My late mother-in-law, Lois Jean Renner Williams, shown here in the late 1960s, believed in the healing power of a hot toddy.
Pour boiling water into a heat-proof mug, add all other ingredients and stir well. Tis is the perfect drink if you feel a cold coming on. If taken just before bedtime, use a high-alcohol, barrel-proof bourbon. Sweet dreams!
Bridget Williams, Editor-in-Chief bridget@slmag.net
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Unbridled
spirit, i n d e e d.
Enjoy your bourbon responsibly. Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45.2% Alc. by Vol., The Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles, KY ©2008.
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It’s Easy Being Green Te renovation of a 1920s home in Hyde Park accentuates its arcadia Written by Bridget Williams Photography by Andrew Kung “Te gardens are absolutely legendary,” said interior designer John Harrison of DIGS when describing the 1920s-era Hyde Park home of his longtime friends and clients.
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A stone terrace with pergola can be accessed directly from the living room.
“Te gardens are absolutely legendary,” said interior designer John Harrison of DIGS when describing the 1920s-era Hyde Park home of his longtime friends and clients. Equal parts urban and Eden, the premises boasts an enviable level of privacy, courtesy of its placement on a bluff, and carefully manicured grounds dotted with majestic specimen trees. Harrison’s involvement with the property spans nearly two decades, and he was ecstatic that for the most recent renovation and redesign his deft interior design skills were once again called upon in collaboration with architect Don Beck. Each room is a repository of treasured items, often with an interesting provenance. In the dining room for example, the 19th century French chandelier was procured from a shop in New Orleans. “Hunting for period antiques of appropriate scale was a fun aspect of this project,” said Harrison. Hanging 20 slmag.net
above the sideboard is a mixed media piece by Judy Pfaff selected from the Carl Solway Gallery. Part of the wife’s burgeoning collection of Majolica is found in the dining room, and Harrison remarked that she is prone to frequently rearrange their presentation. Drapery is ombré silk with heavy fringe. Te deep windowsills are topped with granite to provide additional serving space. Evidence that good taste is timeless, most of the original interior doors and hardware were retained during the renovation, such as the English-inspired double doors with diamond pane leaded glass in the dining room. Leaded glass is also found in the arched doorways of the built-ins on either side of French doors that lead to the gardens. Te walls are a deep taupe, the selection of which the wife had a great deal of input. “She is passionate about color shading,” added Harrison.
Te 19th century French chandelier hanging above the table in the dining room was procured from a shop in New Orleans. Above the sideboard is a mixed media piece by Judy Pfa.
A vibrant Persian Sultanabad rug anchors the husband’s study.
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Te hand-blocked, oral-print English linen from Hazleton House on the sofas served as the starting point for the living room’s neutral color palette. Te rug is from Edward Fields.
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In the family room, an energetic triptych by Jim Dine, paired with boldly patterned upholstery on the Lee Jofa sofa, breathes new life into the room’s many antique pieces.
A vibrant Persian Sultanabad rug anchors the husband’s study. Clever at always lending a contemporary edge to the most traditional spaces, the abstract figural painting Harrison placed over the fireplace seems perfectly in step with the room’s English antiques and Hunt Club-inspired paisley wallpaper. Once dark and depressing, the wife’s cozy library on the second floor was given a new lease on life with a simple coat of paint and glaze. Accentuating the bookshelves are English brass wall sconces with pleated green silk shades. Enamored with 24 slmag.net
the transformation, the wife can often be found here, working tirelessly on myriad causes from the arts to parks. “[Te wife] works more than full time on philanthropy,” said Harrison. A built-in bench seat along one wall provides a comfortable spot to admire the grounds. Major physical changes included restoring the solarium to its original layout and doubling the size of the existing family room. In the latter, Staffordshire Spaniels – quintessential Victorian decorative pieces – co-mingle with other collectibles
throughout the bookshelves and on a table positioned between a pair of sofas. Again, contemporary art, this time an energetic triptych by Jim Dine, paired with boldly patterned upholstery on the Lee Jofa sofa, breathes new life into the antique pieces and keeps the room from feeling old-fashioned. With an abundance of leaded glass doors with transoms providing physical and visual access to the verdant gardens, the overall color palette of the classically designed living room is purposefully neutral. Harrison stated that the hand-blocked,
floral-print English linen from Hazelton House on the sofas in the living room was selected to serve as the room’s focal point. Te walls and trim are painted the same color, with the walls sporting a satin finish and the trim a full gloss. Anchoring the room is a similarly subdued rug from Edward Fields. Several pieces of art were brought back from travels to Europe. Calling to mind the green of early spring, an assemblage of Majolica plates placed within the built-ins on either side of the fireplace provides arresting pops of chrominance. slmag.net
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Detail from the chandelier in the dining room
A peaceful spot for repose in the garden
Accentuating the bookshelves in the wife’s study are English brass wall sconces with pleated green silk shades.
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A rustic farmhouse table near the prep island allows one to watch the kitchen theatre and then savor the results.
A stone terrace with pergola can be accessed directly from the living room. Once you enter the walled confines of the garden, Harrison remarked, “You become part of another world.” Alternating between lush lawns and meandering paths heavily planted with shade-loving specimens, every corner of the garden begs to be explored. Te site of frequent gatherings in warmer climes, there is a screened dining area with catering kitchen to accommodate such garden parties.
Inside, the spacious kitchen is befitting a woman who relishes her time spent there, much to the delight of all who are invited. Gleaming copper pots are suspended at the ready above the prep island, and a rustic farmhouse table nearby allows one to watch the kitchen theatre and savor the results. “I love our early morning meetings because of the warm scones that are waiting for me when I arrive,” said Harrison. “I am in awe of people who can throw flour around with such panache.” sl slmag.net
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Society
January 10 14 15 15-22 18-22 18-22 19-22 20 20-21 20-23 20-29 21 27 28
10am; Cowan’s Decorative Art Auction,; 6270 Este Ave (cowans.com) 7:30; SmartTalk: Tim Gunn’s Golden Rules; Arnonff Center (smarttalkwomen.com) 3pm, The Art of Hair Opening Reception; The Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center (thecarnegie.com) Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Automobile Auction (barrett-jackson.com/events/Scottsdale/) Russo and Steele Scottsdale Automobile Auction (russoandsteele.com) Los Angeles Fine Art Show; Los Angeles Convention Center (laartshow.com) The NYC Metro Show; The Metropolitan Pavilion (metroshownyc.com) 6:30; CCM Moveable Feast; CCM Village (ccm.uc.edu) Gooding & Company Scottsdale Automobile Auction (goodingco.com) Art Palm Beach; Palm Beach County (FL) Convention Center (artpalmbeach.com) 58th annual Winter Antiques Show; Park Avenue Armory New York City (winterantiquesshow.com) Opening of Nick Cave: Meet Me at the Center of the Earth (through April 29, 2012); Cincinnati Art Museum (cincinnatiartmuseum.org) 10am; Cowan’s Asian Art Auction; 6270 Este Ave (cowans.com) 4:30; Dragon New Year Gala; Music Hall (cincinnatiarts.org/venues/musichall/) 5pm; Art After Dark; Cincinnati Art Museum (cincinnatiartmuseum.org) 6:30pm; 4C Champions for Children Gala; Westin Hotel (4cforchildren.org)
February 2 2-6 4 3-12 5 7 9 11
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6:30pm; Seven Hills Schools Books for Lunch Pre-event Dinner; Private Home (7hills.org/booksforlunch) Miami Beach Antique Show; Miami Beach Convention Center (originalmiamibeachantiqueshow.com) Opening of Monet in Giverny: Landscapes of Reflection (through May 13, 2012); Cincinnati Art Museum (cincinnatiartmuseum.org) American International Fine Art Fair; Palm Beach County Convention Center (aifaf.com) 5pm; Lindner Center of HOPE Touchdown for Hope; Champions Club at Great American Ballpark (lindnercenterofhope.org) 6pm; Stepping Stones Pre-Valentine’s Dinner; Eddie Merlot’s (steppingstonescenter.org) 11:30am; ALGC Aspire Award Luncheon; Millennium Hotel (assistanceleaguecincinnati.org) 6:30pm; KY Symphony Orchestra Gala; NKY Convention Center (kyso.org) 6:30pm; Good Samaritans Gala; Hyatt Regency (gshfoundation.com)
BLACK & LATINO ACHIEVERS SALUTE GALA
Photography by Tony Bailey
Te YMCA Salute Gala honored professionals who share in the YMCA’s vision that all youth deserve environments that foster positive growth and have committed to volunteering for the Black & Latino Achievers program. Te event’s featured performer was David Garibaldi, who is known the world over for his unique fusion of hip-hop dance and graffiti-style paintings on canvas.
Gwen Robison, Danny Benning, Toni Miles
Cynthia Brown, Karen Foos, Melinda Kelly, Kris Faulk
Wojtas Jorge
Hideo & Sherri Core
Kim Forsyth, Donald McClurg
E.J. Greig, Whitney Follings, Jesiah Brock
Courtis Fuller, Barbara Prez, Mark Walke
Enid Oquendo, Sandy Walker
Find more photos at slmag.net.
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BEAUJOLAIS PREMIERE
Te French-American Business Alliance of the European-American Chamber of Commerce hosted their 2011 Beaujolais Premiere at Maketewah Country Club. Guests, which included more than 200 international business executives and community members from Greater Cincinnati, enjoyed Beaujolais wine, a buet of traditional French delicacies and a fabulous silent auction. Proceeds from the event support FABA/EACC in their mission to stimulate business relations between Greater Cincinnati and Europe.
David Smith, Michele Blair
Richard LaJeunesse, Ares & Cindy Marasligiller
Photography by Tony Bailey
Christine & Chad Puckett
Llona Lonneman, Christine Ammitzholt, Anne Cappel, Tom Ammitzholt
Suzanne Blackbury, Abby Elsener
John Baines, Candace McGraw, A.M. Kinney, Anne Cappel, Brian Gibson
Dennis Romak, Shau Zavon, Louisa Luk
Michael Parthenkis, Elena Parthenkis, Marylin Seastrom
Natalie Bieser, Ilona Lonneman
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Find more photos at slmag.net.
CELEBRATION OF HEROES
Joined by event emcee Marty Brennaman, Boston Red Sox All-Star and Gold Glove winner Kevin Youkilis returned to his alma mater for a one-of-a-kind event to benefit Josh Cares and Youk’s Kids Athletes for Heroes program. Held at the University of Cincinnati Faculty Club, the event featured a VIP reception, live and silent auction and “Taste of Two Cities” cuisine prepared by the Midwest Culinary Institute.
Photography by Tony Bailey
Jerry Beitman, Don Simpson, Joy Blang, Dan Peirce, Scott Noel, Steve Keller
Mike, Kevin & Carolyn Youkilis
Bebe & David DeVita
Kim Seichter, Kevin Youkilis, Robin Sullivan
Ed & Ina Lofspring
Carolyn & Mike Collette
Dave Hoy, Marty Brennaman
Tom Howard, Marc Niese
Find more photos at slmag.net.
Coleman, Charlie & Louis Goldsmith
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EISELE GALLERY AUCTION FOR ICYO
The Eisele Gallery of Fine Art assembled a collection of fifty 19th and 20th century American and European paintings ranging in value from $500 to $85,000 for a silent auction at their Fairfax gallery to beneďŹ t Inner City Youth Opportunities (ICYO). ICYO provides after-school tutoring, monthly ďŹ eld trips and summer tennis camps to at-risk, low-income children. Te goal is to help these children develop the ability to resist negative peer pressure and increase their academic and social skills.
Dick & Betty Salzer
Marshall Tucker, Avery Foster
Photography by Tony Bailey
Phillip & Whitney Long
Jill Weller, Robert Leroux
Sarah, Terry & Doug Eisele
Fran & Dave Kohl
Bill Niehaus, Jean Ann Johns
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Andrea Bartel, Phil Bell, Jim Barter, Neil White, Dave Silbate
Find more photos at slmag.net.
ALMOST ENGLISH
Written by Kirby Camm, Bittners
Anglo Indian and English Colonial Furniture
When the British Empire was at its pinnacle – during England’s Victorian period in the 19th century – a large number of English citizenry were living in overseas colonies and trading posts around the world. These displaced Englishmen and women needed furniture and accessories for their new residences and because of logistics, created a demand for locally made furnishings. Simply put, it was easier to buy locally, instead of having items shipped from England. With an eye for quality, these displaced Englishmen oftentimes saw to it that local woodworkers were trained by British cabinetmakers. This flourish of furniture making at the various outposts was not planned or orchestrated. It just happened! It should be noted that furniture made in India for English clientele is always referred to as Anglo Indian, and furniture made in one of England’s Caribbean colonies, again for English clientele, is always referred to as English Colonial or British Colonial. Often the country of origin will be in title. Anglo Indian antique furniture is
considerably more prevalent than antique English Colonial or British Colonial furniture. All Anglo Indian and English Colonial furniture has a definite English look and feel, along with added design elements reflecting the particular region where they were produced. It is not uncommon for Anglo Indian and English Colonial furniture to be made from locally grown exotic hardwoods. I have never seen one of these pieces that looked absolutely English with no regional influence. I am sure that these antique furniture pieces do exist, but I have never spied one in today’s marketplace. Te illustrated late-19th century Anglo Indian serving tray is a fine example of something that looks English but is in fact Anglo Indian. Te molding that forms the tray and its handles is typical of the Edwardian period of English antiques, as are the color and finish of the mahogany. However, the chip-carved design on the tray’s flat surface has a definite Anglo Indian look and feel about it and is totally out of character for English serving trays. All of these design elements make an interesting antique tray. sl
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Bibliotaph In 1989, 26-year-old Michel Chapoutier took the reins of his family's legendary winegrowing estate in the Rhone Valley. Tis book explores the all-consuming passion of the winemaker, the saga of his house, and nature of his wines. Photographs of the vineyards, the winemaking process, and of the Chapoutier family and staff bring the world of winemaking to life, showing how this ancient tradition not only survives but even flourishes in the modern world. Jean-Charles Chapuzet - The Wines of Michel Chapoutier - hardcover, 160 pages, Stewart, Tabori & Chang (abramsbooks.com/STC.html).
An homage to an area he calls home, this beautiful book of seasonal images by famed photographer Andy Katz truly captures the natural beauty of this heralded region. The introduction was penned by Wine Spectator editor and columnist James Laube. Andy Katz Sonoma - hardcover, 112 pages (andykatzphotography.com).
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The picturesque and fertile landscape of Saint-Emilion has been synonymous with fine wine since the Romans first introduced viticulture to the region. This wonderfully photographed book provides an in-depth look at dozens of châteaux - from quaint manor houses to lavish estates - spread out among the 10,000 acres of vineyards. Making the tour even more special are the profiles of more than 70 legendary wine makers who have helped to cement Saint Emilion's fame. Beatrice Massenet, Francois Querre and Emmanuelle Ponsan-Dantin - Saint-Émilion: The Châteaux, Winemakers, and Landscapes of Bordeaux’s Famed Wine Region - hardcover, 260 pages; Stewart, Tabori and Chang (abramsbooks.com/STC.html).
bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books
From rhubarb bitters in the springtime to Horchata nog in the summer, spirits expert Maggie Savarino provides a season-by-season toolkit for stocking the bar straight from the farmers' market. Maggie Savarino - Te Season Cocktail Companion: 100 Recipies & Projects for 4 Seasons of Drinking - hardcover, 208 pages, Sasquatch Books (sasquatchbooks.com)
Photographed at the iconic Carlyle Hotel, Assouline's Vintage Cocktails explores the lost art of mixing the perfect drink with elegance and simplicity. Brian Van Flandern - Vintage Cocktails - hardcover, spiral-bound, 140 pages, Assouline (available for purchase at ASSOULINE Boutiques worldwide and assouline.com).
Showcasing the talents of celebrity chef Daniel Boulud and renowned mixologist Xavier Herit of Boulud’s New York City restaurant Daniel this inventive two-volume set - one For Him and one For Her - highlights classic cocktails a modern twist (think teas, spices, herbs, seasonal produce and even modern molecular techniques). Daniel Boulud Daniel Boulud Cocktails & Amus-Bouches, For Her & For Him - two hardcover volumes in slipcase, 160 pages, Assouline (available for purchase at ASSOULINE Boutiques worldwide and assouline.com).
Capitalizing on bourbon's burgeoning popularity, Joy Perrine (award-winning bar manager at Equus Restaurant and Jack’s Lounge in Louisville since 1985) and food critic and author Susan Reigler provide a reader-friendly handbook featuring more than 100 recipes including seasonal drinks, after-dinner bourbon cocktails, Derby cocktails, and even medicinal toddies. The authors complete the work with suggested appetizer pairings, a glossary of terms, and a bibliography of bourbon-related books. Joy Perrine and Susan Reigler - The Kentucky Bourbon Cocktail Book - hardcover, 144 pages, University Press of Kentucky (kentuckypress.com).
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Calvados
Written by Scott Harper, Master Sommelier
Initially when I thought of Normandy, D-Day beaches, steep cliffs, and the struggle and the eventual liberation of France in World War II all came to mind. It was a stop in France that we almost did not make, as we were there for wine. But our gratitude and interest in history made us stop, and I am glad we did – for it was an educational and at times emotionally stirring visit. With the importance of Normandy in World War II aside, what about wine in Normandy? Winemaking in Normandy is nonexistent; it is an area where wine production would not be easy or particularly good. However, any fine Frenchman must have an upstanding beverage in his native region, and Calvados is that beverage, as apples tolerate and flourish in the rain and cold of Normandy. Northwest of Paris in the picturesque hills and valleys of Normandy, there are around seven million apple trees that for centuries have allowed Normans to produce Calvados. The old-world charm of apple and pear trees with cows grazing underneath them is not as prevalent as it once was but still exists, as dairy farms and apple growing go favorably together. The cows are important for the great cow milk cheeses of Normandy, such as Camembert, Livarot and Pont l’Eveque. Calvados is both the name of the fruit brandy and the area within Normandy. Fruit brandies originally started for medicinal purposes and were a way of using fruit not sellable as table fruit.
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Now the apples, which are much smaller than table apples, are grown for the sole purpose of producing fine Calvados. Tere are thousands of different apple varieties in Normandy with each differing in color, ripening time, shape and aroma. Te average Calvados apple would not make for enjoyable eating, and the average table apple would not make for enjoyable Calvados. Many Calvados bottlings use 30 to 40 of these varieties of apples. The apples are actually categorized into four types – sweetsour, bitter, sweet and sour – and are mixed to obtain the most complexity and flavor. A little known fact: the use of pears is actually allowed (although limited) in Calvados. Apples and pears are fermented dry into cider with a minimum of 4.5 percent alcohol. The cider is then distilled in either column/continuous stills or the slower, higher quality copper pot stills. From the still comes a colorless distillate, which is aged in oak barrels of varying ages, with some producers using barrels that have previously held port, sherry or even cognac. Aging the colorless spirit in oak gives the Calvados its typical color of light gold to rich dark amber, contingent upon how long it is aged. During this aging process, evaporation takes place (called the angel’s share), and this evaporation helps the concentration of flavor. Some great Calvados are aged over 25 years. Te Calvados is then bottled at a minimum alcohol of 80 proof.
Tere are three different legally defined areas or Appellations of Calvados. These Appellations also define production method, taste and other criteria. The long name is Appellation d’Origine Controlee or its abbreviation AOC. Each of the Calvados AOCs differs in production rules and area in the Calvados region from which they come. AOC Calvadosis is the basic Calvados and is distilled by column/continuous still. It represents the majority of Calvados produced. AOC Calvados Pays D’Auge is double distilled in copper pot stills and has a maximum of 30 percent pear. Tis is generally considered the finest type of Calvados. AOC Calvados Domfrontais is distilled by column/continuous still and has a minimum of 30 percent pears but can go as high as 100 percent. Te minimum aging is two years, but many Calvados producers age their brandies longer than the minimum. Here are the most common aging terms: • Te youngest Calvados are labeled Fine. • Calvados may be labeled Vieux or Reserve with three years of age. • Calvados are labeled Vieille Reserve or VSOP with four years of age. • Calvados labeled XO, Hors D’Age, Extra or Napoleon are aged a minimum six years. • Calvados may also state the age on the bottle 25 Ans D’Age, and if this is the case, the stated age is the youngest in the blend. • While rare, Calvados may also be vintage dated.
Calvados has traditionally been taken between courses as an appetite enhancer or added to coffee at the end of a meal, but high-quality Calvados is more common served at room temperature in a tulip-shaped glass or brandy snifter. Calvados is not sweet and possesses the aromas and flavors of apples, pears, clove, cinnamon, wood, buttery nuances of oak, vanilla, dried fruit, caramel, apple blossoms and citrus. It is a delicious after dinner drink, and while not inexpensive or easy to find, it offers an amazing flavor and exceptional alternative to other brandies like Armagnac and Cognac. sl Recommended Calvados Coeur de Lion Selection Christian Drouhin Calvados AOC Chateau du Breuil Fine AOC Calvados Pays D'Auge Daron Fine AOC Calvados Pays D'Auge Busnel Vieille Reserve VSOP AOC Calvados Pays D'Auge Lemorton Reserve AOC Calvados Domfrontais
A Certified Wine Educator, Scott is one of 118 professionals in North America and 186 worldwide who have earned the title Master Sommelier.
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NEW KID ON THE BLOCK Written by Bridget Williams
THE SETAI FIFTH AVENUE There is certainly no shortage of luxury hotels for travelers to choose from when visiting New York City. How can a relatively new kid on the block establish itself in such a lucrative market? By delivering on location, amenities and service, all of which Te Setai (opened in November of 2010) does in spades. Te Setai is managed by Capella Hotels and Resorts and represents its first foray into the New York City hotel market, and its third urban property worldwide. Davide Bizzi, chairman of Bizzi & Partners Development, LLC, the hotel tower’s developer, said, “In one of the world’s most competitive hotel markets, we believe that Capella Hotels and Resorts is uniquely qualified to raise the bar even higher on the New York City guest experience.”
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Gwathmey Siegel & Associates designed the Setai’s 60-story, limestone-clad sculptural exterior.
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Te Bar on 5th
Soaring in excess of 60 stories above Fifth Avenue in midtown Manhattan between 36th and 37th Streets, The Setai Fifth Avenue features 157 guest rooms that are among the largest in the city (the majority at 700 square feet or larger), plus 54 apartment suites (starting at 954 square feet) and three penthouse apartments (1,900 square feet) that are ideal for longer term stays in the Big Apple. Six guest rooms (three each on the fifth and 11th floors) have private terraces. At approximately 15 feet by 20 feet, the terraces are stylishly furnished, and those on the 11th floor afford incredible views of the Empire State Building. The hotel units are complemented by an exceptional collection of condominium residences on the tower’s top floors. Art is integral to the aesthetic experience, beginning with the tower’s limestone-clad sculptural exterior, designed by Gwathmey Siegel & Associates in the architectural partners’ last great New York collaboration before the passing of Charles Gwathmey. Like its neighbor, the Empire State Building (just two blocks away), Te Setai’s subtly crenellated crown is illuminated each evening. A cantilevered metal canopy marks the hotel entrance on Fifth Avenue and the residential entryway on 36th Street. Faceted windows protrude over the sidewalks in each of the guest rooms and add additional architectural 40 slmag.net
interest while providing guests with a unique visual perspective on the bustling streetscape. The Setai’s intimate lobby exudes a residential feel and is defined by contemporary artworks from established and emerging American and European artists; a signature sweeping staircase leading to Ai Fiori, a fine dining establishment from the Altamarea Group and Chef Michael White; and an inviting banquette and reception desk of backlit white onyx panels. One of the highlights of the art collection is “Naughty Boy” by folk art sculptor Mark Perry positioned just inside the hotel entrance. Other pieces of note include “Falling White,” a teardrop-shaped installation by Santiago Villanueva suspended within the helix of the staircase; photographs by Peruvian photographer Cecilia Paredes; leading Italian Transavanguardia artist Sandro Chia; native New York City painter Priscilla Heine; and, Barcelona’s Antoni Tàpies, considered the bestknown Catalan painter of the post-World War II era. Each guest at The Setai is assigned a Capella Personal Assistant, who is at their disposal to assist with every facet of their stay. Kimberly Small, our designated assistant, called me 10 days prior to our visit to offer her services. Initially I thought I had everything covered in terms of planning, but after our first correspondence, I quickly realized that her expert insight
Falling White� a teardrop-shaped installation by Santiago Villanueva is suspended within the arc of the grand staircase in the lobby.
Te team of Capella Personal Assistants.
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“Naughty Boy” by folk art sculptor Mark Perry is positioned just inside the hotel’s entrance.
would be invaluable in securing reservations and pointing out hidden gems I would have otherwise overlooked. As a result, our relatively modest itinerary grew in spades, greatly enhancing our stay. Another unique facet of the guest experience is that there is no set time for check-in/check-out. Since we utilized the services of Ultimate Jet Charter, we knew that we would be reliably at the hotel by mid-morning and were thrilled to be able to check-in within minutes of arrival. O u r Pr e m i e r e R o o m w a s o u t f i t t e d i n t h e s a m e clean, contemporary chic style consistent throughout the development. Ample closet space is concealed behind Italian walnut paneling, and similar wood tones are found as part of a large built-in workstation and armoire containing a flat-screen television, stocked complimentary mini-bar and Nespresso espresso machine. Te sumptuous, low-platform, upholstered bed from Duxiana was dressed with Pratesi linens. Te push of a button allowed us to regulate the amount of light flooding the room from the expanse of windows. A spa-like oasis, the bathroom was outfitted with a deep Zuma Collection soaking tub with Grohe fixtures, dual Calcutta marble vanities, glassenclosed rain shower, and custom lavender-and-fig scented 42 slmag.net
bath products created by L Lorenzo Villoresi for La Bottega dell’Albergo. The hotel’s 54 apartment suites continue the same design scheme and finishes as the guest rooms. Each has a separate bedroom, living room and a well-furnished kitchen with generous cabinetry, a full-sized refrigerator, stove and other appliances, all by Miele. In-room private chef services are available. After unpacking, we took advantage of the complimentary pressing service (up to five garments) and set out to explore the rest of the hotel’s amenities. Commandeering the entire fourth floor of the tower (more than 11,500 square feet), the Auriga spa transcends the typical urban wellness facility by developing treatments focused on the phases of the moon. Signature treatments are dedicated to a particular phase of the moon – New, Waxing, Full and Waning – and are only offered when the treatment corresponds to the moon’s particular stage. The spa features 11 private treatment rooms and a unique co-ed Aqua Lounge composed of Experiential Showers (oversized showers with multiple jets, changing lights and changing sound), a Vitality Pool, a Turkish Hammam and a Chill Room. The spa also features a Julien Farel Salon with individual men’s and women’s salons.
Ai Fiori
Te third floor is home to a fully equipped, 3,100-squarefoot state-of-the-art fitness center connected to the spa by a dedicated staircase. Offering a full lineup of equipment by Technogym and Nautilus, there is a separate exercise room that serves as the setting for yoga, Pilates and other group classes, as well as private sessions. Te Setai Fifth Avenue’s second-floor restaurant, Ai Fiori (translated as “Among the Flowers” in Italian), is the newest addition to acclaimed Chef Michael White’s award-winning restaurant group, Altamarea. Given three stars by the New York Times, named by Esquire as one of 2011’s Best New Restaurants and ranked #1 by Zagat as the top new restaurant in NYC, Ai Fiori has quickly established itself as being on par with New York City’s finest dining establishments by showcasing cuisine of the French and Italian Riviera within sophisticated, yet casual environs. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is seating for 160, plus a private dining room. Jazz pianist and composer Antonio Ciacca serves as artistin-residence for the first floor Bar on Fifth, a popular après work hangout for area professionals. Te design of the lounge is best described as quintessential New York with touches of Europe and the Far East. Te generously proportioned space manages
to feel quite intimate courtesy of large custom bookshelves containing carefully selected books and art pieces. Rich materials in complementary color tones include black oak, “Black Cosmic” marble, limestone and fumed oak with silk wall paneling, bronze tinted mirrors and wool carpets. Following a rousing evening enjoying Amateur Night at the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem (an experience I would highly recommend), we arrived in time to settle into cozy corner lounge chairs and enjoy the evening’s final jazz set while sipping classic (Old Fashioned) and specialty (Bittersweet Breeze) cocktails with our late-night dinner of pretty tartines, charcuterie and petite lettuces. Trough February 28, Te Setai is offering a ‘”Manhattan by Moonlight Winter Romance Experience.” Starting at $2,850, excluding taxes and based on double occupancy, the experience includes a two-night stay in a luxurious guestroom, a reserved table and bottle of champagne for a jazz performance at Bar on Fifth, one hour of private, midnight skating at the famed Wollman Rink, and luxury transportation from Te Setai Fifth Avenue to and from Wollman Rink. The Setai Fifth Avenue is located at 400 Fifth Avenue in New York City. For more information or reservations, call 877.734.3028 or visit capellahotels.com/newyork/. sl slmag.net
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Of Note... Geometry 101
Luminist lighted round vessel lavatory from Toto ($5,145, totousa.com).
Type II 54" vinyl wallcovering by David Rockwell for Maya Romanoff Collection (to the trade, mayaromanoff.com).
Knowing the artistic excellence of Orrefors to be comparable with the world of high fashion, Karl Lagerfeld designed a collection in his own image: Clean-lined, subtle and functional. Tis round bowl is limited to 500 numbered pieces (€1,100 - colette.fr).
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Kaapo silk tie by Marimekko ($95, marimekko.com).
From Marimekko's spring/summer 2012 collection, 'Kreisi' designed by Tuula Pรถyhรถnen, is a vivid expression of Finland as the land of polar opposites (us.marimekko.com).
Te Prismick shoulder bag hails From Roger Vivier's spring/ summer 2012 'Urban Jungle' collection (rogerviver.com).
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Set a Standard, as Well as the Table
Written by Diane C. Wachs
Herend's "Rothschild Bird" tureen and undertray
In our world of high tech gizmos and streamlined lives, it is the rare hostess who entertains with good linens, fine silver and tableware. Just as “ennobling architecture ennobles”, dining with finery elevates the experience and engages participants to exhibit their very best behavior. A hostess who holds her guests in high regard incurs a responsibility to entertain them with her best culinary efforts, (or best caterer’s efforts) and certainly with her best implements. Not every party should be a Herculean effort, or an exhibition of heirlooms, but today’s mantra of ‘elegant simplicity’ and ‘casual living’ excludes luxuries that
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assure guests that they are special. We say, “Make the effort trot out the good stuff!” Assuming someone (else) skilled is preparing the food, there are dinnerwares, specifically porcelains that will have guests feeling like royalty. Some manufactories - Herend, Royal Copenhagen and Royal Crown Derby - make those services, and are still producing patterns that are hand-painted and hand-gilded. Tese wares are heirlooms for future generations, a testament to talented craftsmen who produce fine luxury items and to the brave businessmen who have persisted in keeping these firms open.
Herend Still in production with patterns that were created over 150 years ago, Herend’s modest beginnings started in the town of Herend near Veszprem, Hungary. Tat was 1832, a very late date to enter the porcelain frenzy, vying for business against German competitor Meissen, France’s Sèvres and even Hungary. Being distinctive in a market of quality firms was difficult. In 1839, the Herend factory wisely began making replacement pieces for the services of royal families services, which proved to be a turning point as this niche associated the firm with special commissions and patrons. In some cases, the reproductions were as good, if not better, than the originals. By mid-19th century, Herend was purveyor of the HapBy mid-19th century, Herend was the chosen purveyor to the Hapsburgs as well as the aristocracy of much of Europe. In 1865, Francis Joseph I bestowed a noble title to Mór Fischer, proprietor of the factory, in appreciation of fine work in porcelain art. Less than a decade later, in 1872, Fischer was made Purveyor to the Royal Court, and was entitled to use patterns of the defunct Manufactory of Vienna. Tus began the
first golden age of Herend. Te porcelain won several grand and gold prizes in world exhibitions between 1851 and 1937. Te pattern presented at the London World Exhibition in 1851 Chinese-style inserts and flowers painted in lively colors - was so well received that the Queen herself ordered a full dinner service. Hence, the pattern was dubbed, “Queen Victoria”. After World War II, the Herend manufactor y was nationalized and came under the ownership of the Communist State. The firm struggled during those years but continued its lines of porcelain tableware finery. In 1993, following the collapse of the United Soviet States of Russia, Herend was privatized, with 75% of the porcelain manufactory now owned by the management and workers. The mission of producing fine quality porcelain by skilled artisans continues with patterns today that have existed for over one hundred years. Those patterns with longevity are mostly those designed for specific patrons, thus the names, “Rothschild Bird”, “Queen Victoria”, and “Waldstein Marrow”. Others to look for are any variety of colors in the “Chinese Bouquet” pattern.
Herend "Queen Victoria" Pattern
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Set a Standard, as Well as the Table R o y a l C o p e n h a g e n T h e R o y a l D a n i s h Po r c e l a i n Manufactory began with the experiments of pharmacist, Frantz Heinrich Müller (1738-1820), who specialized in mineralogy. In the mid-18th century, Müller had been experimenting with hard feldspar porcelain made from quartz, kaolin and feldspar. This was the secret Chinese porcelain recipe, which had been recreated by the German Manufactor y of Meissen in about 1710. By 1774, the formula was ready for investors and Müller enlisted Danish Queen Dowager Juliane Marie and her heir apparent son as partners. In 1790, Royal Copenhagen brought out its now famous “Flora Danica” service, and its “Blue Fluted” dinner service, with gilded edge and Danish flora motifs.
Flora Danica was a comprehensive atlas of the botany of Denmark. Proposed in 1753 by professor of botany, G. C. Oeder, it was completed 123 years later in 1883, with the complete work containing some 3,200+ copper engraved plates. In 1790 Danish Crown Prince Frederik ordered a dinner service to be decorated with exact copies of the plates of Flora Danica. The service was intended to be a gift for Empress Catherine II of Russia, but she died in 1796, never having seen it. It is still in use for state occasions in the Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, and copies of the set are handpainted, gilded and sold by the Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Manufactory. “Flora Danica” is arguably the finest porcelain still made today. Royal Copenhagen "Flora Danica" plates
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Royal Crown Derby porcelain in the "Oriental Taste"
Royal Crown Derby (II) Royal Crown Derby Porcelain is the ultimate name granted by Queen Victoria in 1890 for what was originally Derby Porcelain, begun in 1747. A manufactory that has had its fair share of mergers, meltdowns and resurrections, the old Derby porcelain evolved first into Crown Derby, when King George III granted permission for Derby Porcelain to incorporate the crown into its porcelain mark. In 1770, Derby merged with Chelsea and then with Bow Porcelain in 1776, bringing with it the prestige of those potteries, as well as their painters and designers. Among their many grand patterns, the strongest to survive these many years are their “Imari” patterns, “Old” and “Traditional”, their “Aves” patterns in many colors, “Imperial Palace”, “Kedleston”, and “Derby Border”. While not all Royal Crown Derby can claim hand-painting, it is safe to say that much of the Imari patterns, as well as others,
are still hand-gilded. Te intense colors, inspired by the Orient and heightened in gold, make tables set with Royal Crown Derby “Imari” literally glow in candlelight. Te factory, which still operates today and employs 300+ in Derby, is about to celebrate 241 years in the business of making every meal where its pieces are used “an experience to remember”. sl
Diane C. Wachs is Director of Fine and Decorative Art at Cowan’s Auctions in Cincinnati, OH. A former museum director and professor hailing from Lexington, KY, Diane holds a Masters in the History of Decorative Art from the Cooper-Hewitt Museum/ Parsons School of Design, New York, NY. Diane has led the Fine and Decorative Art Department at Cowan’s for over four years, overseeing auctions of over $8 million in fine art and antiques.
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Middle-Aged Marvel Approaching a half-century in production, the iconic Porsche 911 gets a modern makeover
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By the late 1950s it was obvious to Porsche that the Type 356, the company’s sole product line since its inception in 1948, needed to be updated. Replacing it, while necessary, was also perilous. Who would have surmised that the eventual replacement for the venerable 356 - the 911 - would surpass its predecessor in sales, longevity and glory, or that it would be so fanatically cherished by its owners that Porsche has yet to supersede it? With its most recent redesign, 48 years into production, the Porsche 911 Carrera is younger than ever. Making its world debut in late 2011 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the completely redesigned seventh-generation 911 is stepping into the limelight with its sleek and stretched silhouette, exciting contours and precisely designed features. Even with the changes, from every angle it is unmistakably discernable as a 911, holding true to the Porsche 911 Carrera ‘evolution, not revolution’ design philosophy.
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Te 3.9-inch longer wheelbase and reduced overall height underpin the athletic yet elegant appearance. When viewed from the front, the eye is drawn to the 911’s trademark widearched fenders, emphasizing the wider front track. Te side mirrors are now mounted on the upper edge of the door, which also helps highlight the new design line and gives the visual impression of width. Comprised of an aluminum-steel composite, the body is about 100 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Te 911 Cabriolet shares the same high-tech, lighter weight aluminumsteel body with the Coupe, and the convertible extends innovation further via its all-new, unique hood. When raised, the design of the hood ensures the iconic 911 roofline is retained in its entirety. Intelligent lightweight design, including the use of magnesium in the hood frame, ensures reduced weight for increased responsiveness, lower fuel consumption and greater comfort. To complement the modern exterior aesthetic, Porsche designers created an interior reminiscent of the Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated within the cockpit thanks to the rising center console and high-mounted shift lever or gear selector located close to the steering wheel. As with the exterior, classic Porsche elements abound inside. Present is the instrument cluster with five round gauges – one of them a high resolution multifunction screen, and of course the central tachometer and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel. Standard bearing fuel efficiency is achieved through systems such as the Automatic Start Stop function, engine and transmission thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world’s first seven-speed manual transmission and – in conjunction with the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) – the ability to ‘sail’ or coast. The new electro-mechanical power steering offers not only Porsche’s typical precision and feedback but also helps increase efficiency and reduce fuel-consumption. 52 slmag.net
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Even with gains in efficiency, performance and power remain paramount. Te 911 Carrera is equipped with a 3.4-liter, 350hp six-cylinder boxer engine, while the Carrera S is fitted with a 3.8-liter, 400hp six-cylinder boxer powerplant, both with the optional PDK transmission available. Te 911 Carrera S with PDK accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds. Using the Launch Control function of the optional Sport Chrono Package cuts that to 3.9 seconds. Te 911 Carrera with PDK needs only 4.4 seconds to sprint from a standing start to 60 mph (4.2 seconds when using the optional Sport Chrono Package’s Launch Control function). Top-track speed for the 911 Carrera S and 911 Carrera is 188 mph and 179 mph, respectively. Better longitudinal dynamics and unprecedented top performance in terms of transverse dynamics are present in the 2012 iteration. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, the new rear axle and new electromechanical power steering. Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available that can help further enhance the overall driving dynamics. Tat is especially true for the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilization system, available for the first time on the 911 Carrera S. Te system helps reduce lateral roll when cornering and helps keep the tires in the optimal position relative to the road surface. Te first new 911 models will arrive in U.S. dealerships beginning in February of 2012. Te new 911 Carrera Coupe will have a base MSRP of $82,100, while the 911 Carrera S Coupe’s base MSRP will be $96,400 (excluding destination). sl
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BIN House
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Runway Report Berlin | Jakarta | Miami | New York
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Berlin Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin combined an exciting mixture of top international designers and young ambitious new talent. At the close of its ninth season, the event has now firmly established itself as one of the most important fashion venues in Germany, with opinion leaders, journalists and stars attracted in ever increasing numbers each season. Te absolute highlight on the final day of the Spring 2012 showings was Iris van Herpen’s show at the Brandenburg Gate. The Dutch designer, already a rising star in her native land and one of the most celebrated performers at the Paris haute couture fashion shows, presented a true firework of originality and avant-garde beauty. Her collection seemed to defy gravity in its play with amorphous shapes, which truly seemed to originate from another planet.
Dawid Tomaszewski
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Mongrels in Common
Green Showroom
Iris VanHerpen VanHerpen
HUGO Rena Lange
Lena Hoschek Laurel
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Jakarta Billy Wong
Jakarta Fashion Week is Indonesia’s definitive fashion event, held annually to showcase Indonesian fashion design talents as well as the progress of its burgeoning fashion and creative industry. The 2012 event, held from November 12th-18th, featured a vibrant and diverse line-up of more than 150 local, regional and international designers. Te opening event, "Alliance of Beauty" brought four of ASEAN's top designers on one stage: Biyan Wanaatmadja from Indonesia, Bernard Chandran from Malaysia, Ashley Isham from Singapore and Tube Gallery from Tailand, the latter of which brought forth an energized, quirky collection dominated by vibrant prints and color paneling. Day two's "Grazia Glitz & Glam" show drew local celebrities and socialites, six of whom participated in the event. Following that was the Indonesian Fashion Designer Council and their "Color Me Life" show, which gathered 10 of its most prominent members to design a color-themed capsule collection. Several highlights included Ghea Panggabean's orange segment, which incorporated geringsing, a traditional Balinese double ikat motif and Tri Handoko's all-white separates. Equally notable were the Batik-centered shows: Dee Ong for Lampung by Batik 118, Ki Artik Batik Culture and Danar Hadi. Day three featured the Association of Indonesian Fashion Designers & Entrepreneurs designers with two Muslimwear segments to start. Muslimwear in Indonesia is a multibilliondollar industry that exports overseas to other Muslim countries such as Malaysia and the UAE. Indonesian Muslimwear designers
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are also regarded by their industry peers as trendsetters due to their liberal and out of the box approach to what otherwise is considered a restrictive way of dressing. One of the most popular designers, Dian Pelangi, presented a colorful mix-and-match collection that redefined Muslimwear in one sweeping gesture. Day four belonged to Obin, one of Indonesia’s beloved textile workers and perhaps one of the few who’s managed to enter the foreign market. Her collection was diverse yet coherent, offering various styles and color palettes that ranged from kebayas to gathered, scrunched and pleated cocoon silhouettes. Te last show of the day was a presentation by three Berlin designers brought by Goethe Institut: Boessert-Schorn, Starstyling and Moon Berlin. Indonesia’s young, new and upcoming designers and labels dominated Day five. Isis's "Born Free" delivered edgy, rock and roll looks, some of which were modeled by Indonesia' pop icons. Te creative hipster crowd gathered for the Cleo Fashion Award, which has gained quite a reputation for catapulting the careers of Indonesia's young indie designers. Jakarta Fashion Week closed with a bang thanks to the roaring success of Dewi Fashion Knights. This year’s line-up included two of Indonesia’s most prominent designers - Sebastian Gunawan and Sally Koeswanto - as well as three relatively new and upcoming names: Sapto Djojokartiko, Auguste Soesastro and Tex Saverio, whose dress was worn by pop phenomenon Lady Gaga in the US edition of Harper’s Bazaar following his debut at last year’s DFK.
Dee Ong for Batik 118 Tex Saverio
Indah Kalalo & Fabiola
Karen Millen & Coast
Sebastian Gunawan at Dewi Fashion Knights
Adhyadma
Tuti Adib
Tube Gallery
RaďŹ
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New York “Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the city’s single largest media event, is proud to offer some of the biggest names in fashion, as well as young and emerging talent, an unsurpassed platform to debut their Spring 2012 Collections,” said Peter Levy, SVP Managing Director, IMG Fashion Worldwide. Drawing in excess of 100,000 guests, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was staged at distinct venues
within Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park from September 8th-15th, 2011. For the Spring 2012 show, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week was especially proud to host an impressive number of new and emerging designers showing for their first time at Lincoln Center. Tey included Candela, EMERSON, Falguni Peacock, Pink Tartan, Honor, Rafael Cennamo, Katya Leonovich and VLOV.
Tommy Hilfiger
Lela Rose
Peter Som Cynthia Rowley
Elie Tahari
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Ralph Lauren
DKNY
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Miami Models, celebrities, VIPS and fashion industry insiders descended on South Beach for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Miami [SWIM] 2012. "Te swimwear industry is such a rapidly growing market worldwide and we are happy to provide a platform for designers to travel from across the world to show their collections. A genuine feeling of a global design community was felt as we showcased designs from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Columbia, France, Peru and the US,” said Christina Neault, Executive Producer of the event for IMG Fashion. Te activities began with a sizzling runway show by Diesel and a not-to-be-missed kick-off party. In addition to the opening, shows included collections from: White Sands Australia, Poko
Pano, Beach Bunny Swimwear, Crystal Jin, L*Space by Monica Wise, Wildfox Swimwear, Caffé Swimwear, Dolores Cortés, Mara Hoffman Swim, Aqua Di Lara, Natori, A.Ché, Red Carter, Cia.Marítima, Luli Fama, Luxe by Lisa Vogel, Lisa Blue, Kooey Swimwear Australia, Nicolita and True Religion. Five days of "invitation-only" shows and events drew more than 12,000 journalists, photographers, buyers, and VIPs to the two runway venues: the Cabaña Grande and the Oasis. Te Oasis was also home to fully equipped cabanas hosted by Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim official sponsors as well as sexy and comfortable seating areas for the fun and fashionable to lounge while mingling with the industry's elite. sl Red Carter
White Sands Australia
Dolores Cortes
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Luli Fama
Lisa Blue
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SPECIALS DELIVERED La Poste Restaurant
Written by Written by Bridget Williams Photography by Andrew Kung Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night would have kept me away from my dinner at La Poste, as I had only heard glowing reviews of their American bistro menu. Given the parking crunch typical in Clifton’s gaslight district (and the extreme chill in the air), we were thrilled to ďŹ nd valet service at the front door. Even at 5:30 p.m. on a weekday, the place was already bustling, which I took as a sign of good things to follow.
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Opened in 2010 just around the corner from the Esquire Teater in a charming space formerly home to Tinks and chockfull of many-mullioned windows, the soothingly neutral interior is jazzed up by an eclectic electronica soundtrack and a regular rotation of outstanding art (a selection of fantastic paintings by Cincinnatian Cole Carothers was on display during our visit). A labor of love for its dedicated owners – Sommelier Bryant Phillips, Kelly Lough, Chef Dave Taylor and Jens Rosenkrantz – the eatery’s moniker stems from the fact that the building was a post office in the 1960s. Baby-faced chef David Taylor started out in the restaurant business at the tender age of 14, and, as he put it, “worked his way up out of the dish tank,” honing his skills and style along the way. He obtained a business degree, which only cemented his belief that being a restaurateur was his business. He is quick to cite a slew of mentors who helped him cut his teeth in fine dining. Taylor met Bryant Phillips, his eventual business partner, through his wife, who had known him since their grade school T-ball days. The duo went on to co-manage The Wise Owl wine bar in West Chester, while hatching plans to open a place of their own. “My goal was to have my own restaurant by the time I turned 35, and we opened just as I was turning 30,” said 68 slmag.net
Taylor. Needing more TLC than a total transformation, the partners added a large L-shaped banquette in the main dining room, a 2,500-bottle wine cellar and private dining room. Te partners’ possess a combined 45 years of management experience in the industry, so it comes as little surprise then that everything runs with the precision of a well-oiled machine. Servers are prompt and knowledgeable without being overwhelming, and the various courses arrived from the kitchen at an even, enjoyable pace. The menu offers up another lighthearted homage to the space’s post office origins as it is broken up into postage (salads), body (appetizers), salutations (entrees) and postscript (dessert). A partial listing of selected wines available by the glass and bottle, including a pick from each of the three certified sommeliers on staff, is found on menu flaps to the left and right of the food offerings. Taylor describes the focus as American bistro fare that is comfortable and offered at an accessible price point that draws locals on a regular basis, as well as destination diners. “We really set out to be a mainstay for the community. There are lots of restaurants in the neighborhood, but ours offers a truly unique experience with an equal focus on the quality of service and ingredients,” he added.
Chef Dave Taylor
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Taylor pointed out that while it may seem like overkill to have three certified sommeliers, the benefit is that each have very different personalities and can offer distinct takes on perfect pairings. While none are considered pretentious or wine snobs, each boasts significant knowledge and, according to Taylor, “You can ‘nerd out’ on the wine experience if you want.” While menu offerings do change at the chef ’s discretion, there are a few mainstays: the Crimson Pear salad, the ravioli and the seared scallops (more on all three to follow). I asked Taylor if he had a personal favorite, which prompted a long pause before saying that it was hard because “there are so many fun things.” When pressed, he cited the veal sweetbreads as one of his favored offerings on the current menu. I perused the menu while sipping a glass of crisp Casa Vinicola Bennati Prosecco di Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore Extra Dry. A gift from the kitchen in the form of a cucumber and apple salad accompanied by house-made pita chips warmed up our palates for a duo of salads: the 70 slmag.net
aforementioned Crimson Pear as well as the Soppressata. Both were wonderfully presented, with the succulent pear stuffed with creamy herbed cheese, wrapped in crispy prosciutto and served alongside arugula and fried parsnip. A marvel of kitchen engineering, the greens of the Soppressata salad were dressed with a lip-smacking truffle vinaigrette, crumbled goat cheese, and gathered so that they stood upright in a sheath of sliced of soppressata. Although I was tempted to order a second salad in lieu of my second course, my tablemates convinced me to share in a varied trio from the “body” segment of the menu: seared scallops, veal sweetbreads and flatbread. While I enjoyed a sampling of the flavorful duo of scallops sitting atop Gorgonzola mousse with bacon vinaigrette, it was the veal sweetbreads that stole the show for me. Te delicately breaded and fried sweetbreads were served on a bed of diced roasted butternut squash and potatoes, pepitas and savory pickled fennel. Sliced into four generous quarters, the thin, crispy
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flatbread spread with wild mushroom duxelle, apple butter, truffle oil and melted Brie, alongside a perfectly poached egg atop a bed of arugula, would make a lovely light entrée. We shared a trio of entrees: the ravioli, the La Poste Burger and the pork chop. After one bite of the ravioli I knew why it was a menu mainstay. Delicate house-made pillows of pasta held a lovely mixture of field mushrooms and fresh sage. Te deliciously decadent cream sauce made me wish for a piece of bread to savor every last drop. I stole a bite of the burger, which was made with a ground blend of 75 percent beef and 25 percent sausage and bacon. Served on brioche with a pepper relish and rosemary goat cheese, it was cooked to juicy perfection. A side of pommes frites with black garlic aioli dipping sauce rounded out the haute hamburger experience.
Devout worshippers at the altar of Graeter’s, we were tempted to forgo dessert and instead head around the corner for a scoop of raspberry chocolate chip, but the promise of warm bread pudding topped with a caramel hard sauce and a scoop of Graeter’s vanilla bean ice cream proved too tempting to resist. Te consensus at the table (including the opinion of an 11-year-old who considers herself a dessert connoisseur) was that it ranked among the best incarnations of this classic dish of Southern comfort we have tried. La Poste, located at 3410 Telford Street in Clifton, serves lunch Tuesday through Friday and dinner Monday through Saturday. For more information or to make a reservation, visit laposteeastery.com or call 513.281.3663. sl slmag.net
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FOOTBALL 101
Te Cincinnati Bengals and the Marvin Lewis Community Fund teamed up to host the 8th annual Football 101 presented by Pure Romance at Paul Brown Stadium. Head Coach Marvin Lewis was joined by members of the Bengals’ coaching staff to explain the rules and nuances of football and lead on-field drills for the 450 ladies in attendance. Marvin and Peggy Lewis recognized breast cancer survivor Jocelyn Banks with the 2011 Pink Football Award.
Heather Dennis, Nikki Flaherty
Rachael Bernstein, Shawna Nenadov
Jackie Hummel, Jeri Ann Childs
Jocelyn Banks, Marvin Lewis, Jim Whitfield, Peggy Lewis
Kayla Caskey, Lisa Lee, Pam Green, Rhiannon Hoeweler
Lesley Roth, Renada Shepherd
Jamie Tipert, Chris Crocker, Anne Cavellier
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Photography by Tony Bailey
Alyssa Hayes, Jen Hampson
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Monica Tuck, Jen Nally
Photography by Tony Bailey
GREATER CINCINNATI FOUNDATION LUNCHEON
The Greater Cincinnati Foundation (GCF) presented two awards at its 2011 Annual Luncheon. Te Jacob E. Davis Volunteer Leadership Award was presented to Dr. Myrtis H. Powell and the Bridge Builder Award was presented to William L. Montague of Frost Brown Todd LLC.
Dan Kenady, Pom Pomeroy, Garett Feldkamp, Donna McGaw
Mark Reitzes, Kristi Tomas, Lisa Kuethe
Ray Watson, Andy Larkin, Cindy Smith
Jean Crawford, Merri Gaither Smith, Miriam West, Cathy Craim
Sean Kelly, Laura Randall
Lavatus, Myrtis & Rose Powell, Rose & Eric Kearney
Nick Hahn, Shannon Carter, Valerie Newell
Mary Beth Martin, Kathy Merchat
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Lisa Mills, Kathleen Burklow
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GREATER BUTLER COUNTY BUSINESS HALL OF FAME
Patti & Dick Alderson, Joseph P. Belew, Speaker John Boehner and Lee H. Parrish were honored as 2011 Laureates at the annual Greater Butler County Business Hall of Fame dinner held at the Cincinnati Marriott North in West Chester. Te Business Hall of Fame celebration is an annual event that Junior Achievement areas throughout the USA host in order to honor business and community leadership excellence. Junior Achievement focuses on inspiring the young people of Greater Butler County and helping them build brighter futures for themselves, their communities, and for the workforce of the region.
Photography by Tony Bailey
Te Joseph P. Belew family
Te Lee H. Parrish Family
Speaker John Boehner, Bonnie & Bill Gale
SpeakerJohn Boehner, Jodi & Brian Van Jura
Mike Mitchell, Krista Parrish
Dick & Patti Alderson, Shellie & Geo Ledere
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Michael & Patty Pratt
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Mary & Dave Lippert
Photography by Tony Bailey
¡VIVA VIOLETA!
Te sold-out event hosted at Nada by the Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health raised just shy of $100k to further the Foundation’s mission to enhance women’s sexual health and well-being through research and education.
Jessica Johnston, Patty Brisben, Chris Cicchinelli
Erin & Daniel Ruttert
Katte Carter, Erin Hoscher, Heather Deyong
Jeff & Sarah Weinkam, Nicole Portal, Andres Velarde
Mary Jo Keyes, Andy & Lori Valerius
Chris & Ashley McVey, Cheryl Force, Andy Hueber
Regina Frazier, Jackie White, Monika Rathnayake
Lore Levy, Francine Fitzgerald
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Donna & Andre Degraaf
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SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION
Jason D. Williams chaired the March of Dimes annual Signature Chefs Auction, a food-sampling extravaganza that pays tribute to the culinary excellence of local chefs, restaurants and bakeries. Dr. Kim Brady, President of Tri-State MaternalFetal Medicine Associates was the event honoree.
Tim Decker, Bob Herzog
Photography by Tony Bailey
Alicia Bond-Lewis & Christopher Lewis
Jason & Kim Williams
James & Sylvia Clingman
Julie Reinstatler, Mike Toner
Kim & Whitney Brady
Adam & Rachel Crawford, Jack Basil
Julie Tomas, Phylesha White
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Marc & Jenny Drapp
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TIFFANY CIRCLE
KEYS TO THE CURE
The Cincinnati Chapter of The American Red Cross Tiffany Circle Society of women leaders & philanthropists hosted its annual event to write Holiday greeting cards to the men and women of our armed forces serving overseas. Te event was held this year at Kenwood Country Club and the special guest speaker was Rear Admiral Tilgham D. Payne, Commander, Navy Region Midwest, who shared with the group how greatly our service personnel appreciate all that the Red Cross does in support of the troops and their families.
Over 100 friends and supporters of Te Wellness Community, a local nonprofit cancer support agency, enjoyed a fun evening of food, entertainment, and shopping, at Saks Fifth Avenue during a stylish in-store preview party that celebrated Saks’ 13th annual KEY TO THE CURE charitable shopping initiative to fight women’s cancers. Internationally known jewelry designer Marco Bicego made a return visit for his second KEY TO THE CURE appearance, greeting guests and discussing his designs.
Cindy Sibcy, Vivian Schwaub, Cathy Crain
Betty Cookendorfer, Marco Bicego, Anna Bianco
Pam Sibcy, Karen DeVanney, Michele Semona, Shelia Cole
Amanda Baker, Lucy Ward, Rick Bryan
Pam Sibcy, Franci Hiltz, Robin Sheakley
Karen Martin, Sally Kurz, Tom Young, Stephanie Quehl, Jennifer Homer
Moe Rouse, Pam Sibcy, Peggy Sturdivant
Rear Admiral Tilghman D. Payne, Lori Wellinghoff
Eve Tedeschi, Kevin Shibley, Heather Blevins
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Francie Condon, Emily Woodruff
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